RE: ATM 2001 Oregon Star Party telescope walkabout

["Mel Bartels" <mbartels@efn.org>]

>>>
- The 4 azimuth bearings must ride on some sort of "track". Is there any
problem with dirt and grit collecting there? Are the azimuth bearings
typically
conical bearings then, rather than teflon pads?
<<<

Yes, dirt and grit collection is a problem.  Don't need to be conical if
riding on thin enough railing.

>>>
- The altitude bearings must be BIG enough to be below the mirror. To
keep them
reasonable, that would entail counterweights or springs.
<<<

Yes, but springs are all the rage, easy to implement, and a very good
idea.

>>>
- Where does one attach an azimuth encoder?
<<<

Bearing pick off wheel.

Mel Bartels